Chinese New Year lights are a symbol associated with the annual New Year celebration. The Chinese Lantern Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar. This unique craft is easy to put together and can teach children about important Chinese Symbols.
As part of my Chinese New Year Crafts for Kids. This simple craft is easy enough for pre-school yet still educational for older children. Inexpensive supplies include a clear plastic cup (solo works well), tissue paper and glue. Add a battery operated candle to give the soft glow of a real candle.
How to Make the Chinese New Year Lights
Supplies:
- Chinese Symbols Pattern – printout includes Faith, Hope, Love, Friendship, Luck, courage, Peace and Wisdom
- Scissors
- Tape
- Craft glue
- Water & small tray
- Clear solo 9oz cup (or any clear plastic cup)
- Scraps of red tissue paper
- Paint brush
- Black permanent marker
- Gold garland (Christmas garland)
- Battery operated candle
Instructions:
Start by printing out the Chinese Symbols Pattern. Then cut apart the 8 Chinese symbols or characters and tape the ones you would like to use inside of the clear cups.
Next, use the black marker to trace the Chinese character on the outside of the cup and allow a few minutes for it to dry. Wipe away any mistakes with a little bit of rubbing alcohol.
Once you are satisfied with the Chinese character that you have drawn, remove the paper and tape from inside the cup.
Place a small amount of craft glue on a small plate and add a few drops of water to slightly dilute the glue. Brush the inside of the cup with the glue and attach the scraps of red tissue paper.
Take a small amount of the gold garland (about 2″) and curl it into a circle. Then glue the garland to the bottom of the cup as shown.
Once everything has had a chance to dry, trim any excess red tissue paper from the bottom of the cup. To finish, place the cup rim side down over a small battery operated candle.
Sharing is Caring
If you liked this Chinese New Year Craft for Kids, please ‘Like’ Activities for Kids on Facebook and stay up -to-date on all the printables and activities for children. Feel free to post comments below on how you have used this printout in your child.